18 Wheeler and Semi Truck Insurance: Insight From the Best Commercial Truck Accident Injury Lawyers
All trucks are subject to state and federal laws and regulations to minimize accident risks. However, some truck drivers and commercial trucking companies will ignore important safety laws and regulations in order to meet their deadlines and maximize profits.
A truck driver who is found in violation of California’s safety regulations and causes an accident, may be liable to an injured driver for their losses. The majority of all truck accidents are caused by a truck driver who was not using reasonable care while driving or who was in violation of safety regulations. Here at West Coast Trial Lawyers, we study and win personal injury and truck accident cases. Below, our experienced truck accident lawyers will discuss the legal requirements for owning and operating a commercial truck.
Interstate Truck Insurance
Public liability insurance is necessary for interstate truck drivers because it offers protection not only for themselves but for other drivers in the event that he or she is found liable for an accident. Bodily injury liability exists so that the insurance company pays for the medical bills of anyone hurt in a trucking accident. Property damage, on the other hand, will pay for anyone’s property that was damaged in an accident.
Interstate truck drivers are required to meet minimum coverage limits. The minimum requirement for insurance coverage will depend on the type of freight.
| Freight | Minimum Coverage |
| Non-hazardous freight and vehicles weighing less than 10,001 lbs. | $300,000 |
| Non-hazardous freight and vehicles weighing more than 10,001 lbs. | $750,000 |
| Oil transported by private and for hire carriers | $1,000,000 |
| Hazardous materials transported by private and for hire carriers | $5,000,000 |
Cargo Insurance Requirements
Cargo insurance is not necessary unless you’re a for hire interstate truck driver. This type of coverage will secure the goods being transported. The limit is usually $100,000, but the specific amount may vary depending on the type of goods being transported.
Physical DamagePhysical damage insurance is necessary if your truck is being financed, and it will protect a personal tractor or trailer from any accidents suffered on the road.
BobtailYou are not required to purchase bobtail insurance if you are an owner operator and already have primary auto liability coverage. However, if you are leased to a motor carrier and are operating under their authority, bobtail insurance may be necessary. Specific coverage amounts will depend on your lease agreement.
Available Damages
Accidents happen. If you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Below is a brief explanation of damages. Damages are a type of monetary award that is determined by a court of law to help compensate an aggrieved individual for any losses or injuries sustained as a result of someone’s negligence.
Economic DamagesEconomic damages are intended to compensate a plaintiff for losses that a dollar amount can readily be attached to. Economic damages are calculated by determining the amount of out of pocket losses an aggrieved individual has or will expect to incur as a result of their injuries.
A few examples of economic losses include:
- Loss of Earning Capacity
- Medical Bills
- Lost Wages
Non-economic damages are essentially intended to cover losses that are thought of as subjective and will not necessarily cover out of pocket losses. Non-economic damages may include compensation for:
- Emotional Distress
- Pain And Suffering
- Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
The third type of damages a California court may award are known as punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended as punishment and are only awarded when a defendant’s behavior is especially harmful. Punitive damages are relatively rare and in fact were only incorporated in 5% of all verdicts.
Furthermore, there is no real set standard for calculating and awarding punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded at the court’s discretion and will vary depending on the specific circumstances of a case.
A Truck Wreck Attorney Will Fight For Your Insurance Claim
If you have sustained injuries in the city of Los Angeles as a result of a trucking accident, an attorney at our firm can help you recover financial compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call us today at (213) 927-3700 or email [email protected] to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.